ABOUT
CONFERENCE @ DC 2025
PROGRAMS
RESOURCES
Oversees all logistical aspects of the ECAASU conference, ensuring smooth operations, timely execution, and an exceptional attendee experience.
Aryani is a junior at the George Washington University, majoring in Sociology and minoring in Asian American Studies and sustainability. At GWU, Aryani serves as the Advocacy Director and Co-President for the Asian American Student Association. They are also involved in other political organizations on campus. In their free time, Aryani can be found reading a mystery book, skateboarding or scrolling through Pinterest. They also enjoy exploring new cafes and bookstores, as well as walking their dog!
Collin Absher serves on the External Conference Team as a Logistics Team Member. His previous involvement at ECAASU as a presenter on his honors thesis led him to continue his passions is Asian American Studies. He graduated from William & Mary's APIA Studies and Chinese Studies programs Summa Cum Laude and currently work in DC as a Civic Fellow at the Close Up Foundation.
Collin Absher serves on the External Conference Team as a Logistics Team Member. His previous involvement at ECAASU as a presenter on his honors thesis led him to continue his passions is Asian American Studies. He graduated from William & Mary's APIA Studies and Chinese Studies programs Summa Cum Laude and currently work in DC as a Civic Fellow at the Close Up Foundation.
Mira Manalastas is a first-generation Filipino-American and the previous ASU advocacy co-chair at the University of Virginia. Mira graduated from UVA with high distinction, and they are currently a graduate student at George Washington University studying art therapy. Mira is currently an art therapist intern at Whitman Walker.
Sam Lee (He/Him) is a second-generation Korean settler, born and raised on Wampanoag and Massachusett land, otherwise known as Boston. He is in his third year at the George Washington University (GWU) which stands on Nacotchtank and Piscataway land,also known as Washington, D.C. At the institution, Sam is double majoring in Archaeology and Korean Studies with a proud minor in Asian American Studies. His academic interests span Asian Settler Colonialism, Indigenous Studies, Critical Pasifika Studies, and solidarity-building among marginalized communities. Sam also holds leadership roles in GWU’s Asian American Student Association (AASA) and Queer & Transgender People of Color Association (QTPOCA), advocating for other cultural-organizing groups. As a member of the planning committee for ECAASU 2025, Sam hopes that this year's conference will be one that can center community, critical knowledge production, and radical love in creating meaningful and memorable experiences for all who attend.
Sam Lee (He/Him) is a second-generation Korean settler, born and raised on Wampanoag and Massachusett land, otherwise known as Boston. He is in his third year at the George Washington University (GWU) which stands on Nacotchtank and Piscataway land,also known as Washington, D.C. At the institution, Sam is double majoring in Archaeology and Korean Studies with a proud minor in Asian American Studies. His academic interests span Asian Settler Colonialism, Indigenous Studies, Critical Pasifika Studies, and solidarity-building among marginalized communities. Sam also holds leadership roles in GWU’s Asian American Student Association (AASA) and Queer & Transgender People of Color Association (QTPOCA), advocating for other cultural-organizing groups. As a member of the planning committee for ECAASU 2025, Sam hopes that this year's conference will be one that can center community, critical knowledge production, and radical love in creating meaningful and memorable experiences for all who attend.
